Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard accused team mate Mario Balotelli of showing disrespect after the Italian found himself at the centre of controversy despite scoring a winning penalty against Besiktas on Thursday.

While the emotional bond formed of 17 years sterling service to his boyhood club ensures Steven Gerrard`s exit will be an emotional occasion, his ageing legs and dwindling reserves of energy mean the hero of yesteryear had already departed.

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has brushed aside rumours revolving around Italian international striker Mario Balotelli's immediate exit from the club, saying that he has no plans to get rid of controversial striker during the January transfer window.